Nollywood is Nigeria’s best export, says Mike Ezuruonye

In terms of foreign exchange, many would say that crude oil is the biggest money-spinner for Nigeria, but handsome actor, Mike Ezuruonye, begs to differ.

According to the talented actor, Nollywood is the country’s biggest export. He said that “Nollywood has really opened up this country in a lot of ways. Even in places where they used to think negatively of Nigeria, Nollywood has helped to change the narrative. I have been to a lot of countries that I was surprised to find that Nollywood has penetrated these places. In Europe, America and the Caribbean, you are sure to find Nollywood movies. As far as I know, Nollywood is the best vehicle of African art and culture.”

Speaking on how he improves himself as an actor, Ezuruonye said, “I usually watch my movies to take note of the mistakes that I may have made. Whenever I accept to portray a character, I ensure that I ‘digest’ everything about that role that would enable me to do a good job. And I observe people a lot because I never can tell when I would be called upon to play any role. For example, if I come across a street urchin, I would study his mannerisms and his style of speaking. That way, when I have to play that part, I would act in a way that people would think it’s real. In the same vein, I also study rich, pampered kids. That’s why I have a bank of characters that I could reach out for when the occasion calls for it.”

On the success of his movie, Brother Jekwu, Ezuruonye said, “I really put a lot of effort into that movie and I’m happy that it was loved and well received by people. It was just a movie that is supposed to make people laugh and also teach them one or two things.”